Robert Smyth Academy Principal set to step down by the end of the month

Robert Smyth Academy Principal Sue Jones is stepping down after 14 years at the school in leadership roles.

Published:12:12Wednesday 22 February 2017

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The Principal of Robert Smyth Academy, Sue Jones, is stepping down after 14 years at the school in leadership roles, citing “personal and family reasons”.

In a letter to students and parents this week she said: “It is with great sadness that I am writing to you to let you know of my decision to stand down from my role as Principal as from the end of February.

“This has not been an easy decision to make. My 14 years working at Robert Smyth, as Assistant Head, Deputy and latterly as Principal, have been the most enjoyable of my working career.”

Robert Smyth Academy’s exam results at both GCSE and A-level have improved significantly since Ms Jones took over as the school’s Principal - the first woman in the role - in September, 2014.

But the shake-up of education in the Market Harborough area, which led to three schools - Kibworth, Welland Park and Robert Smyth - competing for 11-16 year old pupils - has led to fewer pupils, a lower income and financial problems at Robert Smyth Academy.

In her letter to students and parents, Ms Jones said: “The staff and students here are truly remarkable and their hard work, loyalty and support for each other make the Academy the special place that it is. Not only have I enjoyed working within such a vibrant school but also being a part of the local community.

“As Principal, it has been extremely rewarding to see our GCSE and A Level results improve so significantly over the last two years. It has also been a great privilege to have been so deeply involved in the planning of our age range change and to see our first Year 7 students settle so well into the Academy.

“For personal and family reasons, this is the right time for me to move on. You will have read in the local press that we are currently working in partnership with Tudor Grange Academy Trust with a view to becoming a part of their Multi Academy Trust in the near future.

“Being part of a MAT will provide RSA with the financial sustainability that it needs in the current climate and will also provide staff and students with the opportunities to share their talents and benefit from opportunities across the Trust.

“Robert Smyth will be a positive asset to any MAT and I feel confident that, whilst retaining our own ethos and values, we will benefit from collaborative working and sharing resources and ideas.”

Mr Richard Taylor, the Academy’s current Vice Principal, will become Acting Principal for an interim period from March 1.